Mary Akurut
The Nkumba University guild electoral process got underway with a spirited debate held in the TS1 hall, where aspiring student leaders presented their manifestos to an enthusiastic crowd. Hundreds of students gathered to hear the plans of their potential leaders, including Mawanda Derrick, Katende Muhammad, and Alinda Marvin.
The debate, organized by the Electoral Commission, provided a platform for candidates to engage with the student body and demonstrate their readiness to lead. Candidates addressed a range of issues, including academic support, campus infrastructure, student welfare, and transparency in leadership.
Mawanda Derrick, a second-year law student, promised to negotiate tuition payments and ensure accountability from student leaders. “We are the voice of the students, and I pledge to be a bridge between you and the administration,” Derrick told the audience.
Katende Muhammad focused his speech on enhancing student welfare, proposing an inter-association council and a student fund to help raise tuition for students who are unable to pay. “The well-being of every student is a priority; a student cannot miss out on a degree because of failure to raise funds,” he said.
Alinda Marvin, who arrived late, causing chaos in the room, appeared unhappy about being given a last chance to speak. “I don’t have a manifesto, but I believe the manifesto comes from the students; that’s why I’m here to listen to them,” Marvin stated.
Students expressed excitement about the debate and the energy of the candidates. “This is the kind of leadership engagement we need,” said Nampijja Susan, praising Mawanda’s ideas. Cathy Nalwanga agreed, saying Mawanda was a good leader.
Brian Muwonge shared, “I think Katende connected well with us emotionally. He talked about real struggles students face.” Other attendees, Eric Mugisha and Lydia Atuhairwe, had mixed views, praising the candidates’ passion but calling for more clarity on how promises will be implemented.
Lydia observed that, “People think Alinda Marvin will win because he is the only NRM candidate, so they know NRM has money, but there should not be any corruption from people; the best candidate should win.”
As campaigning intensifies, the university awaits the upcoming presidential rally, where candidates will continue to pitch their leadership vision to the entire student body. The Electoral Commission has urged all students to participate actively, reminding them that “voting is not just a right, but a responsibility to shape our university’s future.
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